GILBOA, N.Y. – The New York State Police announced Sunday that Thomas David Ryan is in custody, bringing an end to an intensive multi-day manhunt that began after investigators discovered the body of his father inside a burning home in Orange County.
In a brief update, state police confirmed, “Thomas David Ryan has been taken into custody. The active search in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County has concluded.”
Police thanked the public and numerous law enforcement agencies that assisted in the search, adding that additional information about the investigation will be released later.
Ryan became the focus of a statewide search after investigators identified him as the suspect in the killing of Robert Ryan, 70, whose body was found inside a residence on Greenville Turnpike in the Town of Greenville.
Investigators say victim was killed before fire
According to investigators, Robert Ryan was killed before the home was intentionally set on fire during the early morning hours of Thursday.
Troopers responding to the blaze discovered the 70-year-old’s body inside the residence, and the investigation quickly shifted from a fire investigation to a homicide.
Authorities identified Thomas David Ryan, the victim’s son, as the suspect and warned the public that he should be considered armed and dangerous.
Police said Ryan fled the area in a gray 2016 Toyota Prius with New York license plate HNH-7671, prompting an extensive search involving state, local, county, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Massive search stretched across New York
Over the next several days, investigators expanded the search well beyond Orange County.
The New York State Police asked residents to review home surveillance footage, report suspicious activity, and immediately call 911 if Ryan was seen.
“The New York State Police, Troop F BCI, in partnership with our local, county, and federal law enforcement partners, continue to actively investigate this homicide and are pursuing every available lead to locate Thomas Ryan,” investigators said during the search.
Police also emphasized that “the assistance of the community is critical, and even the smallest piece of information could prove invaluable in bringing this investigation to a safe resolution.”
The manhunt ultimately centered in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County, where authorities announced Ryan’s arrest Sunday.
Investigators have not yet disclosed where Ryan was located, whether he resisted arrest, or the specific charges he will face. Those details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.
The case drew widespread attention throughout New York and neighboring New Jersey because of repeated public warnings that Ryan was armed and dangerous and could have traveled through major interstate corridors during the search.
Key Points
- Thomas David Ryan has been taken into custody after a multi-day statewide manhunt.
- Investigators say Ryan is accused of killing his 70-year-old father, Robert Ryan, before setting fire to the family’s home.
- New York State Police said additional information about the arrest and homicide investigation will be released.
FAQ
- Who was the victim?
Robert Ryan, 70, the suspect’s father. - What happened?
Investigators allege Robert Ryan was killed before his home was intentionally set on fire in Greenville, New York. - Who was arrested?
Thomas David Ryan, 32. - Where was Ryan captured?
State police said the search concluded in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County. - Have formal charges been announced?
Police said additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
Source: New York State Police, New York State Police Facebook
